XMT digital radiographs of two cores of the 8-20 Sand packed identically using the same material and the same procedures. Overall bulk density and unsaturated hydraulic conductivity relationships were identical. However, the water retention behavior was different between the two cores.
XMT Digital Radiograph of Sand One |
XMT Digital Radiograph of Sand Two |
XMT images of the center of the previous 8-20 Sand cores showing the slightly different packing geometries that significantly changed the water retention properties at the low end (which controls discharge) without changing the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity (permeability) relationship. While the difference appears small, it is critical for relative drainage in the backfill.
XMT Image of Sand One |
XMT Image of Sand Two |
